Kheer Recipe 

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup basmati rice (rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes)
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 3-4 green cardamom pods (crushed or powdered)
• 10-12 almonds and cashews (chopped)
• 8-10 raisins (optional)
• A pinch of saffron strands (soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk)
• 1 teaspoon rose water or a few drops of kewra essence (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:

1. Rinse and soak the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 20 minutes, then drain.

2. Cook the Milk:

1. Boil the milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning at the bottom.

3. Cook the Rice:

1. Add the rice: Once the milk has come to a boil, reduce the heat to low and add the soaked and drained rice.
2. Simmer: Stir well and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the milk has reduced and thickened. Keep stirring to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

4. Sweeten and Flavor:

1. Add sugar: Stir in the sugar and mix well. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and sweeten the kheer.
2. Add cardamom: Stir in the crushed or powdered cardamom for a fragrant touch.
3. Add saffron: If using saffron, add the soaked strands and the warm milk to the kheer, stirring well.

5. Add Nuts and Raisins:

1. Nuts and raisins: Add the chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins (if using) to the kheer, and let it simmer for 5 more minutes.

6. Finish and Serve:

1. Rose water/kewra: Stir in the rose water or kewra essence for a floral aroma (optional).
2. Serve: Kheer can be served warm or chilled. Garnish with extra chopped nuts and saffron strands before serving.

Tips:

• For creamier kheer: You can cook the milk longer to reduce it further and make the kheer thicker and creamier.
• Flavor variations: You can also add condensed milk for extra richness or some grated coconut for texture.

Enjoy your rich and creamy Kheer—perfect for special occasions or festivals!